Gahanna Goblin Fest brings hayrides, falconry to Academy Park Oct. 23

Gahanna's annual Halloween festival returns to Academy Park on Friday, Oct. 23, with free admission, falconry presentations, hayrides and trick-or-treat stations spread across the grounds.

The Great Gahanna Goblin Fest runs from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the park, located at 1201 Cherry Bottom Road. The lineup includes presentations from the Ohio School of Falconry, storytelling, s'mores, live performances, food trucks and beer, according to a NBC4 reported.

The city encourages visitors of all ages to wear costumes. Children should bring trick-or-treat bags for candy stations scattered throughout the festival grounds.

Mayor Laurie Jadwin called the festival "a favorite fall tradition" in the city's release, saying it gives residents a chance to celebrate the Halloween season together.

The event started in 2020 as the Great Gahanna Goblin Trail, a drive-thru format created during the COVID-19 pandemic. It returned in 2021 and became an in-person festival in 2022, rebranding under its current name, according to city spokesperson Dan Pearlman, as NBC4 reported.

The city's release says the event is free and families can enjoy all activities at no cost. NBC4 reported that hayrides cost $2 per person and must be purchased by credit card. On-site parking at Academy Park costs $5 and must be purchased in advance online. The city said on-site spots are limited and will sell out.

Free off-site parking is available at 1375 Cherry Way Drive and 1356 Cherry Way Drive. A free shuttle runs between 1356 Cherry Way Drive and a drop-off point near the park entrance from 5:30 p.m. until the event ends.

Gahanna's regular trick-or-treat night is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Upcoming Gahanna events: